A new national leader of New Wine, a charismatic evangelical network of churches in the UK, has been appointed following the resignation of its previous head over an extra-marital affair.
Paul Harcourt, previously New Wine's regional director for London and East and vicar of All Saints Woodford Wells, has been appointed, and will take up the position on October 1.
"I am humbled and privileged to be taking on this role. New Wine has played a key role in my faith and in the life and growth of my church. I believe God is still using the network in powerful ways, and that there are greater things of the Kingdom to come in this nation," Harcourt said in a statement.
"My prayer is that we will continue to push into his Spirit and follow his calling, to see churches across England be changed so that they can transform and bring renewal to community and culture. By continuing my role at All Saints, I intend to remain rooted in ministry within a local church that is part of a family of churches seeking to change nations."
Chair of trustees, John Coles, said the board was "delighted" that Harcourt had accepted the position.
"He brings with him a vast amount of experience leading a local church into renewal, and he is not afraid to trust the voice of God and take risks to advance the Kingdom," Coles said.
"A strategic thinker who understands the vision and values of our network, Paul will bring a fresh leadership perspective to New Wine and is the right person to lead into the next season."
New Wine said Harcourt would draw together a new team which would reflect "the diversity of New Wine, in terms of age, gender, and geographical context."
Harcourt's predecessor, Mark Bailey, stepped down from his role at New Wine and his position as team rector of Trinity Cheltenham earlier this year.
He was later suspended from church ministry for two years by Bishop of Gloucester Rachel Treweek.
